MALAYSIA
Travel Information |
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Kuala
Lumpur Attractions Guide
Biomedical
Museum, Jalan Pahang
The biomedical Museum of the Institute of Medical Research
was established in 1983. The museum records and displays
medical research materials undertaken by the institute
since its inception in 1900.
It showcases materials concerning public health problems
in the country, current research activities and those
related to teaching, training and research.
Collections in the museum include Malaysian fauna of medical
significance such as mammals, reptiles, insects and parasites.
Open : Monday to Friday from 7.30 am to 4.45 pm. It closes
at 12.15 - 2.45 pm on Fridays for prayer. Saturday closed.
Central Market
This pre-war building was the principal wet market for
Kuala Lumpur in the early years. It was extensively renovated
in the 1980's and turned into an arts and cultural centre.
It has become the place for local artists to demonstrate
their skills and display their work. There are numerous
shops and stalls which sell bric-a-brac, antiques, souvenirs,
handicrafts and Asian artefacts.
An open air stage serves as the regular venue for traditional
and contemporary dances as well as musical concerts.
During the weekends, at 7.30 pm, cultural performances
are held. Admission : Free
Craft Complex
There are two craft centres in Malaysia. One is located
in Kuala Lumpur and the other in Langkawi. Known as Kompleks
Kraf, the Malaysian handicrafts showroom act as a 'One
Stop Centre' for tourists to purchase local souvenirs.
The craft complex in Kuala Lumpur is a stone throw's away
from Bukit Bintang area, a famous shopping district in
the city. Strategically located, the centre offers numerous
souvenir items that are uniquely Malaysian. The choices
are abundance. You'll get to choose ceramics, batik clothing,
wooden ornaments and a lot more.
Dataran
Merdeka
Facing the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is Dataran Merdeka
or Merdeka Square, an immaculately-turfed 8.2 hectare
area of historical interest. A 100 metre-high flagpole
marks the spot where the Malayan Flag was hoisted on August
31, 1957 signifying the independence of the country from
British rule. At the opposite end of the square is an
inviting spot where visitors can relax amid soothing rushing
waters of fountains, elegant colonnades and colourful
beds of zinnias and marigolds. Beneath the square is Plaza
Putra, an underground food, leisure and entertainment
complex.
Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS
Malaysia's latest classical music orchestra hall and the
home of Malaysia Philharmonic Orchestra. It is the showcase
for moderm Malaysia's interest in the arts and music.
Although primary focus is on classical , the artistic
programme also include traditional Malaysian music. Located
at Kuala Lumpur city center (KLCC) the tallest building
in the world.
Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia
The Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia located at Jalan Lembah
Perdana houses various themed galleries. Among the galleries
found here is the Islamic Architecture Gallery which showcases
miniature replicas of renowned buildings such as the Taj
Mahal, Imam Ismail Albukhary mosque and museum and the
Amir Timur Mausoleum. Apart from this gallery is the Standard
Chartered Ottoman Room which displays objects from the
reign of the Ottoman Empire of Turkey and Syria.
In the Al-Quran and Manuscript Gallery is a collection
of more than 200 rare Islamic manuscripts which include
a 30-Judz' Al-Quran from the Ming Dynasty.
Istana
Budaya
Istana Budaya is situated at the junction of Jalan Tun
Razak and Jalan Kuantan. The building which is home to
Malaysia's Panggung Negara (National Theatre) is a 'lyrical
theatre of the 21st century'. Its design incorporates
elements of the Malay culture with local interior finishing.
Istana Budaya is proud to be considered as the first theatre
in Asia to have the most advanced mechanism for stage
performances. This accolade places it in the top 10 of
the most advanced theatre in the world and at par with
the Royal Albert Hall in London.
Istana
Negara
The Istana Negara is the official residence of His Majesty,
the Yang di Pertuan Agong, the King of Malaysia. It is
located on a hillock at Jalan Istana, just outside the
city center.
The extensive grounds is enhanced by immaculate lawns
and colourful gardens. The palace is also the venue for
official functions and ceremonies. Visitors can witness
the changing of the guards daily.
Jalan
Masjid India
Another colorful street of sidewalk artists, street traders
and shops. The street takes it name from the Indian Muslim
mosque here. Along this road are shops selling Indian
brass oil lamps, silver tableware, glass bangles and gold
jewellery.
Komplex Budaya Kraf
This handicraft complex located at Jalan Conlay houses
top names in local handicrafts. Here, one can look out
for chic batik outfit, ponder over the variety of home
d?cor items or delight in finding the perfect gift to
take back home.
On the ground floor of the complex, visitors can dabble
in some paints and wax to create their own batik pieces.
At the far end of the its landscaped grounds is the artists
colony where one can watch artists at work. Paintings
are available for sale. The complex is equipped with visitor
facilities, including a restaurant.
Kuala
Lumpur Lake Gardens
KL's most popular park, located at Jalan Perdana, showcases
harmony, beauty and tranquility created by both man and
nature. Built around two lakes, the sprawling 91.6 hectares
tropical garden is a pleasant oasis within the city providing
a cool and soothing ambience as one walks through a vista
of exotic blooms, luxuriant foliage, imposing sculptures,
creative theme parks and majestic-looking raintrees. Attractions
within the park are :
- Orchid Garden :
Open : 9 am - 6 pm (daily). Admission : Free (except
on Sat, Sun and Public Holidays)
- Hibiscus Garden :
Open : 9 am - 6 pm (daily). Admission : Free (except
on Sat, Sun and Public Holidays)
- Deer Park :
Open : 9 am - 6 pm (daily). Admission : Free
- Butterfly Park :
Open : 9 am - 6 pm (daily). Admission : RM 5 (adults),
RM 1 (Children)
- Kuala Lumpur Bird Park :
Open : 9 am - 5 pm (daily). Admission : RM 3 (adults),
RM 1 (Children)
- National Monument
- Asean Sculpture Garden
Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
Built in 1910, the station is yet another heritage building
that reflects the influence of Moorish architecture. It
was extensively renovated in 1986 to provide air-conditioned
comfort and modern facilities for rail passengers.
From this station, passengers can travel to most cities
and towns on Peninsular Malaysia's west coast and to Tumpat
on the east coast. There are also train services to Singapore
and Thailand.
Malaysia Tourist Information
Complex (MTC)
Built in 1935 as the residence of Eu Tong Seng, a wealthy
tin miner, this historical landmark served as the war
office of the British Army and the headquarters of the
Japanese Army during World War II.
It was also the venue for the first sitting of Malaysia's
parliament and the installation ceremonies of several
kings of the country. It was renovated in 1988 for its
present use as a one-stop tourist information complex.
The complex houses other facilities including an auditorium,
a souvenir shop and a restaurant.
Open : 9 am - 6 pm. Cultural performances are held on
Tue, Thu, Sat and Sun from 3.30 pm - 4.15 pm. Admission
: RM 2
Masjid Jamek
It is located behind the Sultan Abdul Samad building right
at the tip of the confluence of the Klang and Gombak Rivers
where Kuala Lumpur had its beginnings. The mosque was
designed by a British architect, A.B Hubbocks and was
built in 1909. It is a stunning example of Indian Muslim
architecture with a distinguished onion-shaped domes,
arched Colonnades and shiny, cooling marble floors. Its
red brick walls is eye-catching. It is set in a peaceful
surrounding of shady grove of palm trees that forms a
green protective border that seems to keep tall and gigantic
stone structures at bay.
Menara Kuala
Lumpur
Situated atop Bukit Nanas in the vicinity of KL's hotel
district, this 421m high concrete tower is Asia's tallest
and the fourth tallest in the world. Visitors can enjoy
a panoramic view of the city from its observation deck
as well as the revolving restaurant. The tower also serves
as a transmission station for telecommunications, radio
and television.
Open : Daily from 9 am - 10 pm. Admission : RM 8 (Adults),
RM 3 (Child from 4-12 years)
National
Art Gallery
The National Art Gallery that exists today is highly praised
by many visitors who have come and view its exhibits.
As one enters its doors, there is a centre piece sculpture
made of metal. For those interested in taking photos of
the gallery and artwork, please spare a few minutes to
fill up a requisition form to obtain a pass.
As you go further into the main area of the gallery, there
are many sculptures which reflect a lot of emotion in
the masterpieces. The main area gives you a pleasant feeling
as the ambience is warm and comforting.
Open : 10 am - 6 pm (Daily). Admission : Free
National History Museum
It is within the premise of an old building situated at
the edge of a junction adjacent to Dataran Merdeka along
Jalan Raja Laut. The building once housed a commercial
bank dating back to 1910. The museum allows visitors to
discover the wealth of Malaysia's historical heritage
through its permanent exhibition of artifacts and materials.
The museum carries out museological activities such as
research, collection, recording and publication with regards
to the nation's treasures. Exhibits include a 520 million
year old metamorphic sandstone, a 40,000 year old homo
sapien skull and an eight-sided gold coin dating back
to the 15th century.
Open : 9 am - 6 pm daily. Admission is free
National
Mosque
This uniquely designed mosque embodies a contemporary
expression of traditional Islamic art, calligraphy and
ornamentation. Its most striking feature is the multi-fold
umbrella-like roof which symbolizes the aspirations of
an independent nation. Standing prominently against the
skyline is the sleek and stylish 73m high minaret. The
national mosque serves as the principal mosque for the
city dwellers.
National Museum
Located at the fringe of Taman Tasik Perdana (The Lake
Gardens) This palatial building was designed along the
lines of classical Malay Architecture and is the principal
museum in the country. Its imposing entrance opens into
an impressive collection of exhibits on local history,
culture and custom, arts and handicraft, weapons and currencies.
There are also exhibits on economic activities like rubber
planting, tin-mining and some samples of Malaysia's flora
and fauna. Outdoor static displays include old locomotives,
vintage cars and replicas of ancient Malay Palaces.
Open : 9 am - 6 pm (Daily). Admission : RM 1 (Children
under 12 years - Free)
National Planetarium
This blue-domed structure is situated atop a hill in KL
Lake Gardens. Its attractions include the space theatre
which screens space shows and movies. In the main hall
are permanent exhibits related to space science. Among
them is Arianne IV space engine - one of the engines used
to launch MEASAT I, Malaysia's first satellite into space.
Head towards the Observatory where on a full moon you
can see the heavenly bodies through the 14-inch telescope.
The planetarium is connected by an overhead pedestrian
bridge to the National Museum.
Open : 10 am - 4 pm. Fridays closed
National
Science Center
Perched atop a hill on 8 hectares of landscaped grounds
at Bukit Kiara on the northwestern fringes of the city,
the National Science Centre was established in 1996 to
promote greater understanding and interest in science
and technology. The building resembles a truncated cone
capped with a geodesic dome. Among the fascinating themes
featured in the exhibition galleries are an environmental
odyssey, pathways to discovery, future world and thinking
machines.
Open : 10 am - 5 pm. Friday closed. Admission : RM 6 (Adults),
RM 3 (Children)
National Sports Complex
The National Sports Complex situated on a 200 acre site
in Bukit Jalil is the venue for sports and other functions.
It houses the National Stadium, Putra Stadium, National
Aquatic Centre, National Hockey Stadium and National Squash
Centre.
Traditional carvings adorn the main entrance of the National
Stadium which was the venue for the opening, closing ceremonies
and the track and field events during the Kuala Lumpur
'98 XVI Commonwealth Games.
National
Theatre
Permanent home of the National Theatre Company and the
National Symphony Orchestra, the National Theatre is responsible
for the development of all forms of theatrical art in
Malaysia.
Designed as a functional building which not only reflects
the beauty of form, the National Theatre is equipped with
state-of-the-art equipment while still retaining the national
heritage and traditional Malay design.
Drama, dance and musical performances are held regularly.
National Zoo and Aquarium
Located 13 km northeast of Kuala Lumpur, the National
Zoo houses some 200 species of animals, birds and reptiles
while the aquarium has 80 species of marine and fresh-water
life. Within the extensive grounds is an area for sea
lions where visitors can see them being most active during
feeding time. There are also train rides for children.
Open : 9 am - 6 pm daily. Admission : RM 5 (Adults), RM
2 (Children)
Petaling Street
Petaling Street (Known as KL's Chinatown) is endowed with
a distinct character of its own. This colourful street
of shops, restaurants and hawker stalls bustles with vitality.
Walk, linger or browse as the sights and sounds capture
one's imagination. Flanking both sides of this street
are shops selling anything from textiles to Chinese herbal
medicines. There are also a number of restaurants serving
authentic regional Chinese Cuisine.
Petronas
Twin Towers
Currently the world's tallest two freestanding towers,
the 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers soars to a dizzying
height of 452m above the city skyline. This gleaming architectural
delight inspired by the five Pillars of Islam is the centerpiece
of the ultra-modern Kuala Lumpur city Centre. Situated
within the towers is the Petronas Philharmonic Hall, home
of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra and the Petronas
Performing Arts Group.
Petrosains
Petrosains is located at Level 4 Suria KLCC. Petrosains
is an interactive science discovery center that tells
the story of the petroleum industry. Interesting features
Include Dark Rides through the rainforest and over mountains,
Giant Diorama with a Singing Dinosaur and other authentic
replicas of prehistoric plants and animals, Molecule "Nanoworld"
Experience, Helicopter Simulator Ride to the "true-to-life"
Oil Rig and many more. The excitement is endless.
Opens: 9.30 am - 5.30 pm Saturday to Thursday. 2.30 pm
- 7.30 pm on Friday Closed on Monday
Putra
World Trade Centre
The Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) is Malaysia's main
conference and conventions centre. It was named after
Malaysia's first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra
Al-Haj. The design of the building is based on Malay Architecture
with its large arch resembling its importance and grandeur.
PWTC is built adjacent to the UMNO building and the Pan
Pacific Hotel. One can take a taxi, buses or even the
cummuter train to get there.
Rumah Penghulu
Abu Seman
The heritage center of the Badan Warisan Malaysia (Heritage
of Malaysia Trust) is located in a mock Tudor building
dating from 1925. In the garden is a bamboo hut built
by Orang Asli of the Temiar community and a restored Malay
timber house known as the Rumah Penghulu.
This was formerly the residence of a local headman in
Kedah. It is beautifully decorated throughout with intricate
carvings and has been furnished to reflect a house in
the early thirties with some wedding accoutrements. A
guided tour and viewing of a video documentary on the
restoration is available.
The Centre hosts regular exhibitions with a heritage theme
and has a gift shop and reference library.
Open : 10 am - 4 pm (Monday-Friday) , except public holidays
Sultan Abdul Samad Building
Overlooking the Merdeka Square, Sultan Abdul Samad Building
was built in 1897 to house the various administrative
departments of the British Government at the time.
Its Moorish features have attracted the interest of visiting
historians and students of architecture. Today, the building
houses the Supreme and High Courts and Infokraf, a centre
for Malaysian handicrafts. |
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